Mercedes engineers have succeeded in aerodynamically optimizing the body of the new E-Class, achieving an impressive Cd of just 0.24 making the E-Class Coupe the world's most aerodynamic series-production car.
To reduce aerodynamic drag, there is an all-new electro-pneumatically controlled grille closure shutter. Its development is based on the knowledge that the air flowing through the radiator and the engine compartment accounts for up to ten percent of a car body's total aerodynamic drag. The fan shutter allows the engine's cooling air quantity to be limited in line with requirements, thus saving fuel. In essence, this means that, when the engine is running under part load and requires relatively little cooling, the radiator grille is closed by a circular system of louvers located behind the radiator. For minimum cooling, the shutter allows just a small amount of residual air to enter the engine compartment, but opens completely when the sensors signal that more cooling air is required.
When the fan shutter is closed, the Cd falls by 0.013, which is equivalent to a fuel saving of up to 2% when travelling at 80 mph. The fan shutter is fitted as standard on the four-cylinder models and on the E 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupe.
